Principal investigator: Katherine J. Hunzinger
Co-PIs: Brian George and Stanton Miller
University: Thomas Jefferson University
Industry partner: Bollman Hat Company
Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury and cervical spine injury in older adults, yet existing head protection remains stigmatizing and impractical for daily wear. SoftGuard proposes fashion-integrated headwear solutions that contain either passive protective materials or active, sensor-responsive protection technologies. In partnership with Pennsylvania-based Bollman Hat Company, America’s oldest hat maker, we will merge biomechanical precision, trauma-informed design, and textile innovation to create protective headwear that is both functional and fashionable. The project prioritizes near-term manufacturable passive protection that can be marketed quickly, while systematically advancing an active, sensor-enabled system for future commercialization. This interdisciplinary effort leverages Pennsylvania’s strengths in manufacturing, clinical research, and materials engineering to address a critical public health need while advancing wearable safety technology. The project will support student researchers, stimulate local manufacturing, and position Pennsylvania as a leader in protective fashion for aging populations.